The Nostalgic Treasures of a Bygone Era

5 Nostalgic Items from the Tough Childhood Years of Generations in Vietnam

The following 5 items evoke memories of the challenging childhood years faced by generations born in the 60s, 70s, 80s, and early 90s in Vietnam. Those who experienced this era will surely remember these familiar objects.

1. “Con Coc” Fan

Among the “luxurious” items during the subsidy period, the “Con Coc” fan was a rare product manufactured in Vietnam and one of the most famous “Made in Vietnam” goods at that time.

The “Con Coc” fan, produced by the Thong Nhat Electrical Engineering Enterprise, cost 35 dong. It brings back memories of the difficult childhood years of generations born in the 60s, 70s, 80s, and early 90s.

The name “Con Coc” fan comes from its distinctive toad-like curved body shape, which became its common name over time.

According to veteran electricians, the “Con Coc” fan was made with high-quality coils, allowing it to run continuously for days, true to the “sturdy and durable” style.

Well-preserved and functional “Con Coc” fans from older generations have become “rare collectibles,” sought after by enthusiasts who are willing to pay a high price for them.

2. Soviet Union Iron

These were portable irons from the Soviet Union, brought to Vietnam in the 1970s and 1980s. During that time, only well-off families or those with relatives working or having been to the Soviet Union owned such irons.

In reality, there was no actual need for irons among ordinary families back then. Only the wealthy and those working as civil servants, who often wore Western-style suits, needed to iron their clothes before going out.

3. Cassette Player

Similar to black-and-white televisions, cassette players also carry the mark of a bygone era of poverty.

Cassette players were Japanese products that entered Vietnam in the 80s and 90s of the last century. The sound of music playing from these cassette players was enough to excite the entire neighborhood.

4. Black-and-White Television

Perhaps, for many, the image of a black-and-white television will forever be etched in their memories. During the subsidy period, black-and-white televisions were worth 7-10 taels of gold and were considered a huge asset. Only affluent families could afford to buy them.

At that time, only one or two families in the neighborhood could afford to own a black-and-white television. In the evenings, young and old alike would flock to the homes of these families to watch the 7 pm news or a TV series together.

The most memorable program was “Bong Hoa Nho” (Little Flower), which captivated the neighborhood children. Despite the small, 14-inch screen displaying only black-and-white images, it brought a vibrant world and was the most modern form of entertainment in those days.

Now, black-and-white televisions are merely decorative items, but during those difficult times, they represented an unattainable luxury for many. For the children of that era, it brought joy, laughter, and a whole new world.

5. “Thong Nhat” Bicycle

In the days of poverty, bicycles were the most popular means of transportation. For a family to own a “Thong Nhat” bicycle was considered a valuable asset.

A “Thong Nhat” bicycle cost half a gold bar, an enormous sum for many Vietnamese families during that period.

The “Thong Nhat” bicycle has gone through various historical ups and downs. Established in 1960, the factory received a government decision in 1965 to distribute bicycles at supply prices, with each official, worker, or employee eligible to buy one.

Some people cherished their allocated “Thong Nhat” bicycle so much that they didn’t dare ride it. Instead, they hung it in their homes, keeping the wheels off the ground, occasionally sitting and pedaling to hear the sound of the chain.

Source: thoixua